Smart Socks to Catch Foot Injuries Early

This article is reprinted with permission from diaTribe. Find the original article here.

By Jeemin Kwon

Siren’s machine washable, dryable socks use temperature monitoring as a convenient way to alert users of potential injuries and help prevent complications

Thanks to increased awareness and better care, the rates of diabetes-related complications, such as lower-limb amputations, has decreased significantly in the United States. However, far too many still occur – an estimated 5 in 1,000 people with diabetes or 100,000 per year. Though medical care continues to improve, many innovators are pushing for even more progress.

One key step to preventing amputations is to catch foot injuries like ulcers early on. Siren’s Diabetes Socks use temperature sensors seamlessly embedded in machine washable and dryable fabric to help wearers catch ulcers before they even develop. Siren Diabetes Socks would be particularly useful for anyone with diabetes who has had a foot ulcer before, has diagnosed neuropathy, or decreased circulation in their feet. Currently, the socks are only available on Siren’s website. No prescription is needed – join the waitlist for priority access here.

The socks are sold in packs of 5 pairs (a six-month supply) with a monthly payment option of $21.50, or $129 total. Siren also accepts HSA/FSA spending cards. At this time, Siren socks are not covered by insurance companies.

How does it work?

Siren Diabetes Socks, which are machine washable and dryable, have six temperature sensors that send data to the wearer’s smartphone. When there is an increase in temperature, the app sends an alert to the user about potential injury. A number of clinical trials have suggested that temperature monitoring is an effective method to catch foot injuries early. A common physical response to injury is inflammation, which generally involves a rise in skin temperature. If alerted to inflammation, an individual can treat the injury and avoid ulcers, ultimately reducing risk for more serious complications. This is especially important in diabetes, as neuropathy, a common diabetes complication involving nerve damage, can make it harder to feel small injuries on your feet. Read additional tips on foot care here.

Assuming everyday use, the batteries powering the Siren socks’ sensors last for six months without needing to be charged. Rather than replacing batteries after the six months, the user can opt-in for automatic shipments of new socks. The socks are moisture-wicking (keep feet dry) and currently come in black or white.

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